Madison Burman

In the spirit of providing value and building strong community relationships, welcome to a series focused on highlighting community creatives so we can all get to know, network, collaborate, and support each other a little bit more. This week’s morning Community Creative highlight is Madison Burman. Here is Madison in her own words.

Where are you from and what is it like there?

I’m originally from Portland, but largely grew up in Amador County. I mostly remember the rain and Powell’s Books from my time in Portland. Amador is far more remote feeling, and it’s where I got started shooting. Those large spaces are a lot easier to work with when you don’t have to shop out a dozen random people.

What type of creator are you (i.e. photographer, model, MUA(H), etc.)? How did you get into it?

I’m primarily a photographer (digital and film), but I have dabbled in HMUA/styling and modeled a bit to make things happen when the concept called for it. A lot of my shoots are on-whim, and usually involve 1-3 people (myself included) winging it. That said, I LOVE working with a complete team of people in their element.

I got into it completely backwards – started playing with stock photos in photoshop, moved to shooting my own stock, self-shot to build a cosplay portfolio, and now I barely shoot cosplay or edit. I largely aim to get it right in camera, but I am guilty of backing up in post and ironing in post where backdrops are involved.

Do you do it for fun or professionally? Any success tips for people who may be interested in what you are doing?

I got into it completely backwards – started playing with stock photos in photoshop, moved to shooting my own stock, self-shot to build a cosplay portfolio, and now I barely shoot cosplay or edit. I largely aim to get it right in camera, but I am guilty of backing up in post and ironing in post where backdrops are involved.

Anything new or recent you’re working on that you’re excited about?

I’m on the verge of moving and plan to build a dedicated studio space in the living room. I’ve done similar work at my current place, but execution has been somewhat limited. I’m excited to see where it goes.

Who inspires you? Where do you get inspiration from?

I barely do street photography, but Fan Ho is on top of my brain when it comes to inspiration. I really aspire to his use of space/shape, and hope that that will come through as I develop more detailed studio sets. At the more modern end of things, I love Lillian Liu’s attention to detail and worldbuilding.

What is something random about you?

I plan to get better at pickling and gardening next year.

What is something you can help other members with? What is something members can help you with right now?

I’m team “no secrets” and am open to sharing really any part of my shot process. I love modifiers and am definitely available to make suggestions or scheme over how to get a certain look in-camera.I’m legitimately awful at culling shots (something of a double edged sword), so I appreciate talking about constructing sets. Feedback is absolutely welcome.

We hope you enjoyed this week’s Community Creative! Stay tuned for next week. For more from Madison, check out her Instagram: